Next Generation Pet Food Manufacturers Association

The Next Generation Pet Food Manufacturers Association (NGPFMA) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for improvements in pet nutrition and supporting pet food manufacturers who prioritize biologically appropriate ingredients, good manufacturing practices, and ethical operations.

Mission and Purpose

The mission of NGPFMA is to advocate for better nutritional choices for pets and their owners by supporting companies that produce or sell pet food that aligns with three core principles:

1. Biologically Appropriate Foods: The association supports manufacturers who create pet food using ingredients that are naturally suited for pets, often going beyond conventional pet food formulations.

2. Good Manufacturing Practices: NGPFMA emphasizes the importance of adhering to rigorous quality standards in the production of pet food to ensure safety and consistency.

3. Ethical and Responsible Operations: The organization encourages its members to operate in an ethical and responsible manner, considering both the well-being of animals and the environmental impact of their practices.

Membership and Activities

NGPFMA's membership includes a diverse range of pet food manufacturers, with a notable focus on smaller companies that were previously unsupported in navigating regulations and industry challenges. As of recent updates, the membership consists of companies producing various types of pet foods, including:

• Human Grade Pet Food: 50% of members produce food that meets human-grade standards.
• Raw Pet Food: 52% specialize in raw diets.
• Cooked Pet Food: 52% offer cooked options for pets.
• Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried Pet Food: Smaller percentages specialize in these formats.
• Distribution Methods: Members use a mix of mail order, direct-to-consumer delivery, and traditional retail channels.

Advocacy and Support

NGPFMA provides its members with several benefits, including:

• Regulatory Representation: Active participation in regulatory forums like AAFCO and the FDA to influence policy changes and protect member interests.
• Access to Confidential Guides: Resources on FDA interactions, recall management, and media relations are available exclusively to members.
• Recall and Inspection Support: The organization provides immediate assistance in navigating crises such as recalls and inspections.
• Industry Networking: Opportunities for members to engage with peers on industry issues and policy.

By supporting these manufacturers and advocating for higher standards in pet nutrition, NGPFMA aims to shape the future of the pet food industry toward more sustainable and nutritionally sound practices.